Carlos Ortiz

Pronouns Used: He/Him

Languages Spoken (other than English): Spanish (intermediate fluency)

Hometown: Washington, DC

Anticipated Graduation Year: 2028

Principal Instrument: Trumpet

Major(s): Contemporary Writing & Production, Game Scoring

Minor(s): N/A

Describe your favorite Berklee experience so far.

My favorite Berklee experience was jamming with my roommates at the beginning of my first semester. Berklee's the only place in the world where you could have a bass, clarinet, trumpet, and drum player living in the same dorm room.

When you think about your favorite class so far, what is one example of why you enjoyed it?

My favorite class so far was the Contemporary Balkan Ensemble. I enjoy the challenge of playing in odd time signatures and eastern modes, which is unique compared to most western genres. It's expanded my musical repertoire and the way I think about my playing.

What is your favorite part about studying and living in Boston?

Boston is like one big college town, so there are plenty of places to sit and study. My favorite is the public library, which is only a few blocks from Berklee's main campus.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone applying to Berklee College of Music/Boston Conservatory at Berklee?

Don't worry about being outclassed or not fitting in. If you can truly imagine yourself in the shoes of a Berklee student, then that's all the reason you need. Celebrate your uniqueness and embrace it.

Where is your favorite place on campus?

Berklee's Caf is my favorite place. It has a very open atmosphere, and you can always find interesting people to talk to. Also, the food is great.

Why did you choose Berklee?

I was attracted to Berklee because of its wide breadth of academics and opportunities, as well as its diverse student body. After attending a summer Electronic Production & Design workshop in 2023 and seeing such a remarkable audience of student artists, I knew Berklee was the best choice for me.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I want to work with a sound team as a composer and producer for video game scores.

What have you enjoyed most about the live shows you've been involved in at Berklee?

What I've enjoyed most about performing is the professional environment that Berklee creates. I played in the David Friend Hall for my ensemble's final performance; the dedication from the sound team enhanced the experience from both the audience's and performers' perspectives.

Where do you hope to perform this coming year?

I hope to play in a Caf show this year.

Your social media channel / web URL

Instagram: @c_arlos_ortiz